First, choose a size that fits the space available, has enough room for your dishes and can be connected up properly. A compact countertop model can handle a small amount of washing-up if your worktop is suitable; a 45 cm freestanding model offers more capacity, while an integrated dishwasher needs a suitably sized housing unit. In an open-plan kitchen, also compare the noise rating on the energy label, then check water and electricity use and Eco programme duration on a like-for-like basis.
A compact countertop model could be a good fit if its racks can hold your everyday dishes and you have enough worktop space for the appliance. UFC-Que Choisir describes 6-place-setting countertop models for smaller homes; check the dimensions and connections of the model you’re considering.
A 45 cm freestanding dishwasher is worth comparing with a compact model if you need more room for plates and pans. UFC-Que Choisir says models of this width generally hold 9 to 10 place settings; check whether the loading capacity and cycle frequency suit your household.
Noise is an important comfort factor when a wash cycle runs close to your living space, as UFC-Que Choisir points out. Compare the decibel rating and noise class on the energy label for the specific model, rather than relying on the word ‘quiet’ alone.
First rule out any sizes that won’t fit your space or washing-up needs. Then compare the noise levels and usage figures of the models that remain.
Consider it: if you have a small amount of washing-up and a suitable worktop; UFC-Que Choisir features compact models with 6 place settings.
The trade-off: limited capacity may mean rearranging the load or running cycles more often.
Consider it: if you have floor space and want more capacity than a compact model, but don’t have a space for an integrated appliance.
The trade-off: it takes up more room than a countertop model, even though it is narrower than a standard dishwasher.
Consider it: if you already have a suitable housing unit or your kitchen design includes space for an integrated appliance.
The trade-off: you’ll need to check the cabinet, connections and any matching door panel before placing your order.
| What to consider | What to check | Your needs |
|---|---|---|
| Space and loading | Measure the space, door clearance and route for the hoses. Compare the place-setting capacity and rack layout with your plates, dishes and pans. | I want to fit a day’s washing-up without cluttering the worktop or blocking the way through. |
| Noise | Compare the decibel rating and noise class on the label for the specific model. For an open-plan kitchen, tests that also consider vibrations and beeps can add useful context; UFC-Que Choisir assesses these factors in its testing process. | If the dishwasher is running while I’m in the living room, the noise matters just as much as the space I save. |
| Water, energy and cycle duration | ADEME says the label shows electricity use in kWh per 100 reference cycles and water use in litres per cycle. Also compare the Eco programme duration, and don’t assume these figures apply to a quick or intensive cycle. | I want to compare cycles on a like-for-like basis and check that the duration works with my routine. |
| Installation | Check the water supply, electricity connection and drainage: UFC-Que Choisir lists these as the three connections needed for a standard dishwasher. Check the manual for dimensions, levelling instructions and any requirements specific to the model. | Before choosing a size, I need a space where the door can open and the connections will remain accessible. |
A compact model may hold the advertised number of place settings without easily accommodating your dishes or pans. If you have to run several cycles, the space you save may not solve your everyday needs.
Compare the rack layout with the dishes you use regularly. If the capacity seems too limited, consider a 45 cm model too.
The decibel rating alone doesn’t tell you how disruptive a dishwasher may be: UFC-Que Choisir’s testing process also takes vibrations, beeps and the character of the noise into account.
Check the decibel rating and noise class on the model’s label, then look for a detailed test if noise during a cycle is a key concern for you.
The energy label figures are used to compare appliances based on the Eco programme; they don’t automatically describe a quick or intensive cycle.
Compare kWh per 100 cycles, litres per cycle and Eco programme duration across the labels. For other programmes, check the model’s documentation.
A freestanding model comes with its own finished exterior, while an integrated model may need a matching door panel and a suitable housing unit. Electrolux says its installation service may not include carpentry, plumbing or electrical work.
Before ordering, check the dimensions, connections and what’s included in the installation service. Follow the model’s manual for installation and any leak protection features.
Depending on the space and service you choose, you may need a door panel, cabinet alterations or a separate installation service.
These models include countertop dishwashers for smaller loads and integrated appliances to consider if your kitchen has a suitable housing unit. Check each product listing against your available space and loading habits.
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Worth considering if a 6-place-setting countertop appliance suits your everyday dishes and worktop. The product name lists 7 programmes, 47 dB and a D energy class; for an open-plan kitchen, also check the noise class on the label. Check the dimensions, weight and connections before installation.
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The built-in tank mentioned in the product name may appeal if there’s no direct water supply where you plan to put the appliance. The product is listed with 5+1 wash cycles. Before choosing this setup, check how wastewater is drained, along with the dimensions and stated noise level.
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Consider this for a kitchen with a compatible housing unit already in place, rather than a very narrow space. The product name lists a 60 cm width, 13 place settings and a B energy class. Check the housing unit dimensions, connections and the model’s noise label before planning installation.
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This countertop model is designed for very small loads: compare the interior space with the plates and utensils you use. The product name lists 7 programmes and a D energy class. Check how it’s filled and drained, along with its noise ratings if it will run near your living room.
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Worth considering if your fitted kitchen can accommodate a high-capacity integrated appliance. The product name lists 14 place settings and a C energy class. It also mentions 60 cm, but the dimensions given in the description don’t clearly match this width: confirm the appliance and housing unit measurements before ordering.
A standard dishwasher needs a water supply, an electricity connection and a wastewater drain: these are the three connections listed by UFC-Que Choisir. Also check that the appliance can be levelled, that the door can open and that the manual allows it to be installed in your chosen space.
No. The worktop must also be suitable for the appliance, its capacity must match your dishes, and the water supply, electricity and drainage must be set up in line with the manual. UFC-Que Choisir describes compact models with 6 place settings for smaller homes, but this capacity won’t suit everyone.
Compare the decibel rating and noise class on the labels of the models you’re considering. If the dishwasher will run near your living room, a test that also details vibrations or beeps can help you compare them: UFC-Que Choisir takes these factors into account in its testing process.
No. ADEME says the energy label shows electricity use in kWh per 100 reference cycles and water use in litres per cycle. Use these figures to compare models based on the Eco programme, but don’t assume they also apply to quick or intensive programmes.
No. Bosch describes its AquaStop system as being able to shut off the water supply if it detects a leak, but you still need to check the connections and follow the installation instructions for the model you choose. Also check the requirements for the specific leak protection system.